Throughout the month of April, Pizza Pizza’s traditional restaurant locations are trading slices for unused cell phones or handheld devices. Now in its eighth year, the company’s Cells for Slices program encourages people to recycle their unused devices, which are often not disposed of properly. All of the proceeds collected from this initiative benefit Food Banks Canada as part of its Phones for Food program.

“The Cells for Slices program is a win for everyone,” said Pat Finelli, chief marketing officer for Pizza Pizza. “It reminds people of the need to be environmentally responsible and that doing so can be a real positive experience.”

As innovations in technology increase, so do consumers’ desire to keep pace with the latest trends. While many may not want to use their normal garbage to dispose of their old or unused devices, most are simply unaware of safer alternatives for dealing with this waste.

Cell phones and smart phones contain hazardous substances that are harmful to the environment if not recycled responsibly by an approved electronic waste recycler. The collection of these devices and subsequent processing of materials, through the Cells for Slices program, not only curb these environmental threats, but they raise funds for an important cause. Each device will help to raise funds for Food Banks Canada.

“With over 851,000 people visiting a food bank monthly, we depend on the support and generous donations from the business community and the Canadian public,” said Katharine Schmidt, Executive Director at Food Banks Canada. “The Cells for Slices program is an initiative that helps Food Banks Canada raise funds that are invested in national programs to support food banks across the country.”

Through its Cells for Slices program, Pizza Pizza has helped to recycle more than 5,600 used mobile devices since 2004. Restaurants in Ontario, Winnipeg and Regina will be participating in the campaign, visit the Pizza Pizza web site to find a location near you.